Metallic taste in the mouth: what it means, causes

If you have a metallic taste in your mouth, this may be a sign of poisoning or internal intoxication of the body, which occurs against the background of some obvious or hidden diseases. In any case, whether this is the only symptom or part of interrelated discomfort, it is better to consult a doctor. To begin with, to your local therapist. If necessary, he will refer you to other specialists.

What does a metallic taste in the mouth mean?

It may be a sign of a bacterial infection. For example, enterococcal infection affecting the intestines manifests itself in a similar way. With a high viral load of hepatitis viruses, with any kidney pathologies, a similar sensation may appear. A similar picture can be observed with carbon monoxide poisoning, other gases, with the destruction of hemoglobin against the background of various serious diseases. If you have recently returned from warm tropical countries, this may indicate a parasitic invasion, or the initial stage of malaria. Thus, it is impossible to say for sure what exactly a metallic taste in the mouth means. Even if such a sensation arose once and for a short time, you need to consult a doctor.

Causes metallic taste in the mouth

Changes in taste sensations can be caused by various reasons – from hormonal imbalances and the influence of occupational hazards to severe intoxications and tumor processes. At the same time, the signs can manifest themselves in different ways, accompanied by other accompanying symptoms.

If the problem is not associated with any pathologies and appears only periodically, then the root causes may be:

• Drinking water enriched with iron. For example, a lot of iron can be present in unboiled tap water that flows through a rusty pipeline, or in well or spring water if the soil has a high mineral content. It is relatively easy to detect a high level of iron in water: if you pour it into a transparent container and let it stand, then a dark (rusty) sediment will be visible at the bottom.
• Using aluminum or other low-quality metal cookware for cooking, or using pots and pans with damaged protective coating (enamel, Teflon, etc.).
• The presence in the oral cavity of crowns or braces with metal elements, which, during the oxidation process, cause an unpleasant taste sensation.
• Taking medications – in particular, long-term treatment with tetracycline drugs, as well as Metronidazole, anti-allergic drugs, proton pump inhibitors (Lansoprazole).
• Consumption of low-quality seafood, poor-quality fish, stale mussels and shrimp. In some cases, serious poisoning develops after eating such food, requiring urgent medical intervention.

Metallic Taste in Mouth After Coronavirus

Coronavirus infection often occurs without obvious symptoms, hidden. And only taste changes and loss of smell indicate the presence of the disease. Some people experience weakness and a metallic taste in the mouth: these symptoms appear approximately 2-14 days after infection.

Among other pathological signs, the following are most often found:

• high temperature, with chills;
• cough (dry, without sputum, with a burning sensation behind the breastbone);
• shortness of breath, feeling tired, severe weakness;
• less common – runny nose, sore throat, nausea;
• digestive disorders.

The taste may disappear completely or be significantly distorted: many patients experience foreign aftertastes, previously favorite foods become tasteless, and appetite is lost. The sensation of metal in the mouth is not a specific symptom, but is observed in approximately 10% of patients diagnosed with COVID-19.

Metallic taste in the mouth with gastritis

Inflammation of the gastric mucosa can be acute or chronic. Depending on the course of the disease, its symptoms also differ.

Acute gastritis is accompanied by a burning sensation behind the breastbone, nausea, sharp pains in the stomach, sometimes vomiting, bloating and unpleasant belching.

Chronic gastritis is characterized by a long course, with alternating exacerbations and abates of symptoms. The clinical picture is less pronounced: increased gas formation, alternating diarrhea with constipation, digestive disorders, a gray coating on the tongue, increased salivation. Many patients experience nausea and a metallic taste in the mouth, of varying intensity. The pain is not sharp, but constant. Morning vomiting is possible. Among the general symptoms: fatigue, headaches, rapid heartbeat, dizziness.

With increased acidity, regular heartburn, frequent belching and diarrhea are observed. With gastritis with low acidity, taste changes are accompanied by "rotten" belching, weakening of peristalsis and increased fermentation processes in the intestines. Nausea may bother you in the morning.

Metallic taste in mouth after antibiotics

It is no secret that antibiotics can cause a lot of side effects, including an unpleasant sensation of metal in the mouth. This effect is especially common when taking tetracycline drugs, as well as doxycycline, metronidazole, ornidazole. As a rule, this symptom disappears on its own almost immediately after completing the course of antibiotic therapy.

In addition to antibiotics, an unpleasant metallic aftertaste can also be caused by other medications:

• corticosteroid drugs (prednisolone, dexamethasone);
• hormonal contraceptives (Marvelon, Femoden, etc.);
• statins (Simvastatin, Atorvastatin);
• proton pump inhibitors, antacids (Omeprazole, Omez, etc.);
• antihistamines (Diazolin, Suprastin);
• hypoglycemic drugs (Metformin, Siofor, etc.);
• antihypertensive drugs (Enalapril, Phenigidine, etc.);
• synthetic dietary supplements (in particular, so-called weight loss drugs).

Metallic taste in mouth when you have a cold

A runny nose caused by an allergy (to pollen, animal hair, dust, etc.) may also be accompanied by taste disturbances, which is associated with inflammatory processes in the upper respiratory tract. Additional symptoms may include sleep disturbances, a feeling of fatigue, conjunctivitis, nasal discharge, a feeling of pressure in the sinuses, and, less commonly, a cough.

A metallic taste in the mouth during ARVI can be caused by both the effects of viruses and the intake of various medications, as well as minor damage to the capillaries (for example, during coughing, sneezing, etc.). In addition, against the background of decreased immunity, which usually occurs with infectious pathologies, other disorders may appear, such as stomatitis, gingivitis, tonsillitis and other pathologies, in which a foreign aftertaste may also appear.

Metallic taste in mouth before period

Quite a few women experience discomfort a few days before the onset of menstruation. Such discomfort can have varying intensity and be accompanied by headaches, unpleasant sensations in the lower abdomen and mouth. Taste and smell often change, and increased sensitivity to different tastes, aromas, and even sounds appears.

Taste disturbances may bother during periods of 2-3 days before the start of the monthly cycle and continue for 5-8 days. A metallic taste in the mouth is often observed after ovulation, which is also caused by a sharp change in the hormonal background in the body. This phenomenon is especially characteristic of patients suffering from dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, which regulates the production of hormones.

The main reasons for this problem can be divided into the following:

• a sharp decrease in the amount of progesterone in the blood;
• change in water-salt balance;
• change in the amount of prostaglandins;
• iron deficiency anemia, especially typical for women with heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding.

Hormonal changes also cause a metallic taste after implantation, when the body begins to intensively prepare for a difficult period for it. The condition can be aggravated by nutritional disorders with excessive intake of carbohydrates and saturated fats into the body, excessively frequent consumption of unhealthy food (fried, salty, spicy).

Metallic taste in mouth after drinking alcohol

Alcohol or other intoxications can also cause a metallic taste in the mouth and salivation, which is especially noticeable after drinking large amounts of alcohol or with prolonged alcohol consumption (chronic intoxication).

In case of severe poisoning, there may be not only a foreign aftertaste, but also digestive disorders, dry mouth, severe headache, dizziness, nausea (possibly even with vomiting), and confusion. In addition to alcohol, similar symptoms may develop with mercury vapor, lead, arsenic, copper or zinc poisoning - for example, at work, during accidents and leaks at enterprises, with accidental ingestion of copper sulfate or arsenic solutions, with prolonged contact with varnishes and paints.

Metallic taste in mouth with pneumonia

Damage to capillaries during inflammatory processes in the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract can provoke a bloody or metallic aftertaste after coughing. A similar symptom can appear in both children and adults.

During a strong coughing impulse (especially if the cough is dry), the pressure on the capillary walls increases, which leads to damage to their integrity. The capillaries of the upper and lower respiratory tract can also be damaged.

But the appearance of bloody salivary secretions in the oral cavity should be a warning sign: in such a situation, it is better to seek qualified medical advice. The pathology should be differentiated from pulmonary tuberculosis, pulmonary abscess, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, and tumor processes.

Other symptoms of pneumonia include:

• high body temperature;
• chest pain;
• dry or wet cough (with the appearance of pinkish, brownish or “rusty” sputum, there is usually a sensation of a metallic taste in the mouth);
• general weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite;
• increased breathing rate.

Metallic taste in mouth with anemia

Dry mucous membranes, burning in the mouth, metallic taste are typical for iron deficiency and folate deficiency anemia. Such disorders may be accompanied by dizziness, weakness, nausea, frequent headaches, appetite disorders, tinnitus. These symptoms are not always the same in intensity, which depends on the degree of anemic processes. In severe cases, patients experience fainting, heart pain (even at rest).

In this situation, the diagnosis is made based on the results of a blood test. As a rule, with a competent approach, it is possible to eliminate unpleasant symptoms and improve blood composition within a few weeks.

Metallic taste in mouth after running

Often, even after a short run, a bitter and metallic taste in the mouth may appear. The main root causes of this phenomenon are:

• a sharp increase in the intensity of blood circulation, increased stress on the respiratory system and liver;
• damage to the capillary network against the background of increasing stress on the body (most often, the capillaries of the respiratory tract and tissues of the oral cavity are damaged).

If the taste change is minor, you can continue training, slightly reducing its intensity. If you additionally detect saliva with blood streaks, you need to stop training and visit a doctor who will conduct diagnostic measures, adjust the training process and advise on the optimal duration and degree of physical activity.

Metallic taste in mouth with thyroid disease

The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolic processes, heart rate and body temperature. However, this small organ also indirectly affects many other processes in the body: everything depends on how correctly it functions and in what quantities the corresponding hormones are secreted.

Hyperactivity and underactivity of the thyroid gland can lead to:

• to mood swings (apathy or irritability);
• to disruption of digestive processes (constipation or stomach upset);
• to sleep disorders (insomnia or drowsiness);
• to sudden changes in body weight (weight loss or weight gain);
• to pressure surges (hypotension or hypertension);
• to impaired concentration;
• to dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss and the appearance of an unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth.

If such problems arise, you should visit a doctor and check the quality of your thyroid gland.

Risk factors

The risk group includes people suffering from chronic infectious diseases, patients with dysbacteriosis and disturbances of normal microbiocenoses in any biotopes. The risk group should include all people with acute and chronic kidney and liver diseases, cancer patients, patients who have recently undergone surgery, anesthesia, anaesthesia. The risk group includes people who have returned from hot countries where there is a risk of parasitic, bacterial invasion.

This group includes people who are not vaccinated against major infections, seriously ill patients, people with poisoning. Or those who, due to their professional duties, are forced to contact microorganisms, viruses, be in contact with infectious patients (microbiologists, bacteriologists, virologists, epidemiologists, infectious disease specialists, employees of infection control centers, laboratories, microorganism museums, research institutes and their divisions, infectious disease hospitals and departments, etc.). The risk group includes physicists, chemists, biochemists, technologists, pharmacists, biotechnologists who have constant contact with chemicals, reagents, active components. This group also includes X-ray technicians, ultrasound room employees, and other employees who are often exposed to various types of radiation.

The risk group includes people who, due to their professional duties, regularly encounter poisons, toxins, organic and inorganic substances, such as fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, construction and repair materials. Pregnant women should be considered as additional risk factors, since their bodies undergo multiple changes, including tactile, taste, and sensory sensations. Toxicosis and internal intoxication may develop, which is why such sensations appear. A similar picture is observed in cases of poisoning with mushrooms, food products, alcohol, medications, and chemicals. Childhood, old age, and adolescence are considered separately, since at each of these stages of the life cycle, hormonal changes occur that can lead to impaired sensitivity, or poisoning occurs more often, and the predisposition to it is higher.

A metallic taste in the mouth may appear in patients with kidney and liver diseases. It is often observed in liver cirrhosis, stomatitis, erosions and ulcers, bleeding. Often this is observed with a hangover, in people prone to alcohol abuse, in chronic alcoholics, or drug addicts.

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Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis is based on two processes. On the one hand, it may be a violation of the sensitivity and susceptibility of receptors, which entails false symptoms of intoxication. A similar picture is observed with alcohol abuse, neuroses, overeating, stress, and so on. Violation of perception can entail hormonal changes, changes in the composition of microflora, mucous secretion, as a result of which a metallic taste appears. This can be observed with bleeding, bleeding of individual organs and tissues. During pregnancy, menstruation, lactation, postmenopause and old age, there is a sharp change in susceptibility, and various unpleasant tastes in the mouth may appear, including a metallic taste and smell.

The second reason is poisoning, which is often accompanied by a metallic taste. This is especially common with carbon monoxide poisoning. A person may not feel any other signs of poisoning, and may not even smell gas, but the sensation of a metallic taste should be alarming. In this case, the pathogenesis is based on the development of the intoxication process, damage to blood cells, possible liver damage, destruction of red blood cells and the release of free hemoglobin into the blood. In true poisoning, the features of further pathogenesis depend on how the poison entered the human body. Toxic substances enter the body in one of the known ways - through the respiratory tract, through the gastrointestinal tract, or through the mucous membranes and skin. Let's take a closer look at what happens in each case.

So, if poisoning occurs through the respiratory tract, the poison passes through the nasal passages, nasopharynx, affects the bronchi and lungs. As a result, the mucous membranes are burned, and toxins further penetrate into the respiratory cells and tissues. The epithelium dies, the microflora changes, the composition of the mucociliary clearance changes, which includes mucous secretion, synthesized substances, cellular and tissue elements. This entails the appearance of a metallic taste. There is also additional stimulation of the ciliated epithelium, the development of edema and irritation on the mucous membranes of the upper and lower respiratory tract. New microflora may appear, with completely different characteristics and properties. This can also be accompanied by the appearance of a metallic taste. The accumulation of the toxic substance occurs in the alveoli. There, they are absorbed, absorbed through the cell membranes. The substance is absorbed and then penetrates the blood, where the main toxic effect is carried out. Once in the blood, the poison destroys red blood cells, which results in the release of hemoglobin. It is known to consist of four iron atoms, which can result in a metallic taste in the mouth.

When penetrating through the gastrointestinal tract, a burn of the esophagus, oral cavity, and stomach develops in a similar way. This entails a change in the composition and qualitative characteristics of the microflora, mucociliary matrix, causes irritation of receptors, and death of the epithelium and cilia. The microflora changes. It is worth noting separately the ability of the poison to cause erosions and gastric bleeding. In this case, a metallic taste may also appear in the mouth, since the blood contains red blood cells and hemoglobin, as a result of which they acquire a characteristic taste. The main absorption occurs through the walls of the large intestine, then through the walls of the small intestine. After absorption, the substance enters the blood, and then has a toxic effect there. The mechanism of action is similar to that when the poison enters through the respiratory tract (in the blood, the poison acts the same, regardless of how the poison entered the body). Red blood cells are destroyed and free hemoglobin is released into the blood, resulting in a metallic taste.

The substance is transported in the blood, then the poison enters the liver, where a number of transformations occur. Basically, the poison is neutralized. This leads to disruption of the functions of the blood, liver and kidneys.

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Epidemiology

According to statistics, in about 78% of cases, a metallic taste in the mouth is a sign of poisoning. Various chemical and biological substances can act as a toxic substance. Most often, poisoning develops as a result of exposure to carbon monoxide, since it leads to a sharp destruction of red blood cells. The taste is caused by the release of hemoglobin into the free bloodstream (approximately 95% of all poisonings accompanied by the appearance of a metallic taste in the mouth are caused by carbon monoxide). The remaining 5% of poisonings are caused by various chemicals, bacterial toxins, and mushroom poisons. In any case, the taste is caused by hemoglobin, as well as neurovegetative stimulation of nerve receptors. In 3% of cases, the cause is a severe viral or bacterial infection, parasitic invasion. About 3-4% are caused by hormonal and immune pathologies.

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Symptoms

Sometimes the presence of foreign taste sensations is accompanied by other, background symptoms of the same pathology. It is necessary to pay attention to such painful first signs, because they can significantly simplify the diagnosis and allow you to start treating the disease faster.

Here are the symptoms we are talking about:

• Nausea – occurs with problems in the digestive system, bile ducts. Nausea with bitterness may indicate liver disease, poisoning (including drug overdose).
• Dizziness – begins to bother with impaired function of the central nervous system, with improper functioning of the circulatory system, as well as with anemia or dehydration. Often serves as a sign of poisoning with heavy metals or complex chemical compounds. Dryness of the mucous membranes in the oral cavity – manifests itself against the background of dehydration, as well as with diabetes mellitus, nutritional disorders.
• Cough is a manifestation not only of acute respiratory diseases and viral infections. When coughing, a metallic taste in the mouth appears due to damage to the capillary network in the upper respiratory tract, which can happen in patients with diseases of the ENT organs, the digestive system, as well as with allergic processes in the body.
• Heartburn and a metallic taste in the mouth can be combined if the problem is caused by regular consumption of water containing a lot of iron, or systematic use of aluminum cookware for cooking. Another reason is increased acidity of gastric juice.
• A metallic taste in the mouth, dizziness and nausea are typical signs of serious poisoning, in particular, arsenic compounds or heavy metal salts. Additional symptoms may include increased salivation, vomiting, unpleasant belching (sour, rotten, etc.).
• Dry mouth and metallic taste occur during stress, excessive anxiety, psycho-emotional overload. Anxiety and fear activate the production of stress hormones in the body, which affects taste and the functioning of the salivary glands.
• Bitterness in the mouth and metallic taste are characteristic of liver pathologies, for diseases of the biliary tract. In some cases, such a phenomenon is observed after episodes of overeating, drinking large amounts of alcohol.
• A metallic taste in the mouth and headaches may occur with a lack of vitamin B ₁₂ or with anemia. Patients also complain of increased fatigue, energy deficiency, decreased performance, irritability and poor sleep.
• A metallic taste in the mouth in the morning sometimes bothers people suffering from kidney disease. If these organs are not functioning properly, the level of certain substances in the blood increases, causing various symptoms, including foreign taste sensations. In such a situation, additional symptoms such as fatigue, a feeling of heaviness in the lower back, swelling of the lower extremities, changes in body weight, muscle twitching, headaches are possible.
• Temperature and metallic taste in the mouth accompany infectious diseases - in particular, those that affect the paranasal sinuses, upper respiratory tract and/or hearing organs. Among other most likely symptoms of infectious pathologies, one can name rhinitis, nasal congestion, headaches (sometimes in the ears), coughing, chills, muscle aches. The temperature usually rises to high values (38-39 ° C).
• A metallic taste and blood in the mouth appears if there are dentures, crowns or other damaged or poor-quality dental structures, pathologies of the gums or teeth, as well as in the presence of bleeding wounds, damage to the mucous membrane. A metallic taste in the mouth from crowns may indicate the presence of several structures in the cavity that are incompatible in chemical and ionic components.
• A metallic taste in the mouth and diarrhea are characteristic of intestinal pathologies, including helminthiasis, enteritis, enterocolitis, irritable bowel syndrome, as well as food poisoning and infectious diseases.
• A metallic taste in the mouth at night can be a consequence of problems in the digestive system, such as the pancreas or liver. In addition to the unpleasant taste, bitterness or acidity in the mouth may appear. The disorder often occurs in people who are used to having a hearty dinner right before bed, as well as in those who are obese.
• Numbness in the mouth with a metallic taste often accompanies chemotherapy: such symptoms are noted on average in every second patient undergoing such treatment. In addition, a strong feeling of fatigue, hair loss, digestive disorders, decreased hemoglobin levels in the blood, hemorrhages, sore throat, weight loss, mood swings are possible.

The first sign is the appearance of a slight metallic taste in the mouth. It may also be accompanied by dryness, burning, and a feeling of increased temperature in the throat and nose.

Metallic taste in mouth in men

In men, taste disorders are most often caused by professional characteristics. For example, a metallic aftertaste is often noted in workers in foundries, metal processing complexes, people who are engaged in the extraction of minerals, or those working in the chemical industry. Among other possible causes:

• systematic use of mineral waters;
• using aluminum pots and plates for eating;
• excessive physical exertion;
• alcohol consumption, excessive stress on the liver, liver disease;
• long-term use of antibiotics and some other medications.

In general, the causes of the problem are the same as in other people. These are intoxications, dental problems, anemia, diabetes and digestive disorders, neurological and otolaryngological pathologies, hypovitaminosis. It is often possible to establish the origin of the disorder only based on the results of diagnostic measures.

Metallic taste in mouth in woman

Women sometimes experience specific reasons for the appearance of foreign taste sensations:

• Hormonal changes, pregnancy period can cause increased consumption of vitamins and minerals in the body. In some cases, the disorder signals that hormonal imbalance changes the work of taste buds.
• Strict mono-diets, unjustified intake of biologically active supplements, uncontrolled consumption of weight loss products, taking multivitamin preparations in large doses can lead to a violation of mineral metabolism in the body, as well as to various types of intoxication. One of the signs of such violations is a foreign aftertaste in the mouth.
• A prolonged lack of moisture in the body, dehydration and other disorders caused by women's struggle to lose weight and eliminate swelling lead to dry skin and mucous membranes, dizziness, weakness and an unpleasant change in taste.

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Metallic taste in mouth during pregnancy

Quite often, women during pregnancy experience a metallic taste in the mouth, changes in smells, tastes, and sensitivity. This may be due to hormonal changes, increased stress on the body. Under the influence of hormones, the sensitivity and susceptibility of receptors is significantly reduced. This leads to the appearance of various unusual tastes, the perception of various smells, increased sensitivity, distortion of tastes and sensations.

This process is also supported by a certain state of neuroregulatory systems, including the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. It is determined by the state and activity of the pituitary-hypothalamic system and the pineal gland, which stimulate the production of neurohormones, neuropeptides, which in turn trigger a number of chain mechanisms and cascade reactions that support the entire body. These processes also support adaptive resources, regulate the dominant of pregnancy - a state in which only those areas responsible for motherhood, bearing a child, and parental behavior remain the most active, while other functions of the brain are sharply dulled.

But it is necessary to take into account that such a mechanism is often a sign of pathological reactions occurring in the body. For example, a characteristic metallic taste may indicate a pathology of the kidneys, liver, an exacerbation of a gastrointestinal disease. A similar picture is observed in blood diseases, bleeding, anemia and destruction of hemoglobin, trauma and the risk of miscarriage, spontaneous abortion or premature birth. It can be one of the signs of Rh-conflict. To exclude all risks and prevent an unfavorable outcome of pregnancy, you need to consult with your doctor. A more detailed examination and further treatment may be required.

Metallic taste in the mouth of a child

In children, a metallic taste in the mouth after eating may be a companion of anemia or hypovitaminosis. If such pathologies are suspected, it is necessary to take a general blood test and review the diet, and, if necessary, take a course of multivitamin preparations.

It is important to understand that anemia in young children can eventually lead to iron metabolism disorders, which in turn will lead to a disruption in the child's physical development. Hypovitaminosis and anemia are characterized by drowsiness, irritability, poor concentration, rapid fatigue, and poor appetite.

Another common cause of taste changes in the mouth may be liver disease or excessive strain on this organ. In this situation, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician.

Less common causes include:

• diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction;
• acetonemia;
• poisoning with heavy metal salts;
• drinking water with a high iron content (in particular, tap water);
• diseases of the gums and teeth.

If any taste disturbances appear, the child should be shown to a doctor: a pediatrician or a family doctor. He will carry out the necessary diagnostic measures and, if necessary, prescribe treatment.

Diagnostics metallic taste in the mouth

The basis of diagnostics is the determination of the exact reason for the metallic taste in the mouth. Then the main changes that have occurred in the body are determined and the severity of the pathological process is assessed. Everything depends on what changes are occurring in the body.

To make a diagnosis, you need to contact your local therapist or pediatrician, and he will prescribe the necessary diagnostic scheme. If necessary, additional specialist consultations will be scheduled.

It is important to know the patient's medical history. To do this, you should conduct a detailed survey of the patient, ask how long ago such sensations appeared. The patient should describe his subjective sensations in as much detail as possible, remember how long ago and under what circumstances they appeared. Are there any factors that strengthen or weaken the condition.

Then the doctor conducts an examination. Clinical tests are often prescribed (standard - blood, urine, feces). They will help determine the approximate direction of further diagnostics and will allow to assume what may be wrong in the body. The further set of diagnostic methods will depend on this.

It is on this basis that we can make a basic assumption regarding the cause of the metallic taste, on the basis of which further examination will be prescribed. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the greater the chances of a favorable outcome. Therefore, when the first complaints appear, you need to

The diagnostic algorithm for changes in taste is usually as follows:

1. The doctor confirms the pathology and begins to determine its nature and causes.
2. Eliminates side effects of medications.
3. Excludes local causes – dental pathologies, diseases of the nasopharynx, gums or middle ear, salivary disorders, changes in the composition of saliva.
4. Excludes systemic pathologies (metabolic disorders, endocrine and digestive diseases).
5. Excludes injuries, neuropathologies, intoxications, diseases of the central nervous system.

First of all, to determine the root cause, the doctor collects information and details the complaints, anamnesis, and conducts a physical examination. It is important to determine whether it is only a change in taste or also a disturbance in the perception of smells.

• Are there any other aftertastes?
• What is the violation associated with?
• Is the metallic taste masked by food or drinks?
• Are there any disturbances in the perception of food temperature or density?
• Is the metallic taste constant or intermittent, sudden or gradual?
• What is the duration of the violation?
• Is there a temporary connection between the pathological aftertaste and surgical interventions, any diseases, injuries? Perhaps the patient has recently suffered from colds, tonsillitis, rhinosinusitis?
• Do you have chronic diseases, pain, paresthesia, dysphagia? Do you have dry mouth, or have you noticed any weight changes?

In addition, it is necessary to clarify the details of oral hygiene, learn about the medications taken, about possible contact with irritants and toxic substances. If the patient is a woman, it is necessary to assess the likelihood of pregnancy or the onset of menopause.

It is mandatory to clarify questions about previous injuries, operations, tumors, chemotherapy, and whether the person has bad habits (nicotine, alcohol, drug addiction).

Physical examination includes examination of the oral cavity, ears, nose, cervical lymph nodes, assessment of neurological and mental status.

Tests

At the initial stages, standard tests are prescribed - a clinical blood test, a general urine test, a stool test. This will allow you to roughly get your bearings in what is happening and determine the reason for the metallic taste in your mouth. In the future, the set of tests is determined directly by the specialist who is monitoring. Everything depends on the presumptive diagnosis.

For example, if poisoning, intoxication, autoimmune pathologies, toxicosis are suspected, the main research methods are toxicological analysis and biochemical research. During toxicological analysis, the toxin. During biochemical research, the main changes in the body. If liver pathology is suspected, a biopsy, biochemical blood test, bile analysis, bilirubin analysis, etc. may be required. If kidney pathology is suspected, various urine tests are taken - clinical, biochemical, sediment analysis, Necheporenko analysis, three-glass test, bacteriological urine culture, etc.

Such tests as daily monitoring of diuresis, analysis of lavage water, biopsy with subsequent cytology and histological examination of the biopsy, microscopic examination (of biopsy, scraping, biological fluids), detailed immunogram, serological, immunological, allergological research methods, bacteriological cultures, virological diagnostics, rheumatic tests and tests for tumor markers may also be in demand.

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Instrumental diagnostics

At the initial stage, as a rule, a standard examination and physical examination are enough. A preliminary diagnosis is made, and then the patient is sent for a consultation to a specialist. He is engaged in further diagnostics. The set of tests for instrumental diagnostics, accordingly, will depend on which doctor is conducting the diagnostics. The essence is that first it is necessary to identify the cause of the pathology, then the area of damage, determine those organs and systems that have been subjected to the greatest pathology. The methods depend on this.

For example, if there is a suspicion of developing any disease of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, gastroscopy, radiography, ultrasound, colonoscopy may be required. If there is a suspicion of diseases of the respiratory system, the following research methods can be used: spirogram, radiograph, functional tests, fluorographic examination. If there is a suspicion of diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract, X-ray of the kidneys, rheography, ultrasound are used. Almost universal research methods that are used in all areas are electrocardiogram, angiography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance and computed tomography, X-ray.

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Differential diagnosis

Sometimes the data from the survey and examination are not enough to make a diagnosis. For example, several diseases have similar symptoms. But to select adequate treatment, you need to know the exact diagnosis. Then differential diagnostics is used. If necessary, instrumental research methods and laboratory tests can be prescribed. An additional consultation with a specialist can be carried out. In particularly difficult cases, a council or medical commission is convened.

Distinctive diagnostics are carried out with the following pathologies:

• anemia, electrolyte and mineral metabolism disorders;
• gastrointestinal diseases, reflux disease;
• liver and kidney diseases;
• parasitic lesions;
• intestinal dysbiosis;
• autoimmune pathologies;
• tumor processes;
• neuropathology, diseases of the central nervous system.

Treatment metallic taste in the mouth

Treatment is etiological and symptomatic. Etiological treatment involves the focus on eliminating the cause that caused the metallic taste in the mouth. Symptomatic therapy involves the need to eliminate the symptoms and pathological processes occurring in the body. One of the main means is the treatment of the body as a whole, at the systemic level. Various methods are used for treatment. Treatment methods are determined primarily by the cause and pathogenesis, complaints, objective examination data, and subjective sensations of the patient. Complex therapy is usually used, which includes medication, physiotherapy, and other means. Various medications are used as drug therapy. Thermal procedures, hydrotherapy, massage, hardening, therapeutic exercise, gymnastics, proper breathing, and meditation are effective as physiotherapy. Folk and homeopathic remedies and herbal medicine also help.

What to do if there is a metallic taste in your mouth?

It is important to understand that a metallic taste in the mouth can appear for various reasons. What to do if it appears depends on these reasons. There are at least two options - either it is carbon monoxide poisoning, or one of the symptoms of some disease. If this is a sign of a disease, then you will not be able to do anything on your own, without diagnosis. Therefore, the only thing required of you is to see a doctor and undergo an examination. The sooner this is done, the better.

In the second case, you need to make sure that you do not continue to inhale carbon monoxide. Its effect on the body must be stopped as quickly as possible. To do this, you need to provide access to fresh air as quickly as possible, after which you need to immediately call an ambulance, and in the meantime provide emergency assistance.

In case of poisoning, the main treatment consists primarily in providing correct and prompt first aid to the victim. The patient's life depends on this. There is an algorithm for providing emergency aid in case of poisoning:

1. Providing emergency care (stopping further entry of poison into the body; removing poison that has already entered the body; neutralizing poison that has entered the blood).
2. Maintenance of vital functions of the body (detoxification therapy; pain relief; symptomatic treatment; checking pulse, breathing, blood pressure, pupillary response to light).
3. Basic therapy aimed at eliminating the pathological process, the consequences of poisoning (pathogenetic therapy; etiological therapy). It turns out, as a rule, after hospitalization.
4. Recovery measures (at the stage of hospital treatment + several months after discharge). During the recovery period, it is important to follow a dietary diet. Patients with reduced immunity are prescribed antiviral, antibacterial, or anti-inflammatory therapy. Often poisoning is accompanied by a vitamin deficiency, and vitamin therapy is prescribed accordingly.

Medicines

Medicines are used only as prescribed by a doctor, after examination and diagnosis. Self-medication is prohibited. These are the main precautions that every person who does not want to harm their health should follow. This will also help to avoid unwanted consequences, side effects. The main side effects of non-compliance with the doctor's recommendations are deterioration of the condition, chronicity of the disease, development of concomitant pathologies. Let's consider the main medications that can be used when a metallic taste appears, even if you do not yet know exactly what the cause of this phenomenon is.

Since the most common cause of metallic taste is, after all, poisoning, to eliminate the main symptoms of intoxication, it is recommended to take regular activated carbon, or white carbon (sorbex). Even if it is not a matter of poisoning, it is unlikely that these drugs will cause harm. The body is always affected by a number of unfavorable factors, there are many internal mechanisms of intoxication. Sorbents will help to neutralize them and remove them from the body. Activated carbon requires 5-6 tablets, and sorbex is enough 1-2 tablets per day, since this is a prolonged-action drug.

Enterosgel is a fairly good sorbent. A tablespoon of the product is dissolved in a glass of warm water and drunk once a day. This is an effective remedy, in addition to removing toxins, it also removes waste, undigested and stagnant food, cleanses the blood, liver, removes dead and altered cells from the body.

Often, a metallic taste is accompanied by swelling, an allergic reaction. In this case, antiallergic and antihistamine drugs are needed. The most well-known, but at the same time effective remedy is suprastin. It is taken 1 tablet 1-3 times a day, depending on the severity of the swelling. But this drug has a drawback - it can cause drowsiness and a slow reaction.

In case of severe pain, painkillers such as spazmalgon are prescribed to relieve the pain. Take one tablet 2-3 times a day.

Vitamins

The following set of essential vitamins is recommended (daily dosage is indicated):

• In 2-3 mg
• PP – 60 mg
• A - 240 mg
• E – 45 mg
• C – 500-1000 mg.

Physiotherapy treatment

Physiotherapeutic procedures play an important role in the complex treatment of diseases. Physiotherapy is indicated for patients with dental problems, metabolic disorders, and neuropathologies. Depending on the type of disease, the following methods of treatment are used:

• Diadynamic therapy and diadynamic therapy allow to direct the drug to the required place (for example, to the tissues surrounding the tooth), improve blood circulation, stabilize metabolic processes. Indications for use: lesions of the facial or trigeminal nerve, injuries, periodontosis and pulpitis, acute inflammatory processes.
• UHF therapy has anti-inflammatory, analgesic effect, activates metabolism, promotes tissue regeneration. Indications are: periodontitis and periodontitis, pulpitis, gingivitis, trauma, neuritis.
• Electrophoresis improves tissue regeneration and stops the development of the inflammatory process. Such procedures are used in neurology, orthodontics, orthopedics, and dentistry.
• Magnetotherapy has an antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, anti-edematous effect, stimulates blood circulation and promotes tissue regeneration. It is used for musculoskeletal pathologies, injuries, neuritis, periodontitis, post-traumatic or post-operative changes in taste sensations.
• Microwave therapy promotes vasodilation, accelerates blood flow, normalizes metabolic processes, and inhibits inflammatory reactions. It can be used for inflammatory or dystrophic pathologies.
• Ultrasound therapy has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, resolving and sensitizing effects. The procedures are indicated for neuritis and neuralgia, inflammatory diseases (including those of the oral cavity).

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Herbal treatment

Rinsing the mouth with herbal deodorant infusions can help eliminate the unpleasant metallic sensation. Juices from certain fruits and plants have also proven effective.

• Herbal teas and decoctions with sage, mallow leaves, and linden flowers have a calming and cleansing effect. It is especially useful to rinse your mouth with a cool infusion, and linden tea can also be taken internally - 2-3 cups a day.
• It is important to drink enough water throughout the day. Rinsing your mouth with salted green tea or sparkling water also helps.
• Parsley or coriander juice helps well: just hold 1 teaspoon of fresh juice in your mouth, then do not eat or drink for an hour. The unpleasant aftertaste should disappear. In some cases, lemon juice is used instead of parsley juice.
• A metallic taste in the mouth after sleep is perfectly eliminated by aloe juice, which is squeezed from the bottom leaf of the plant. You can also simply chew a well-washed leaf for five or ten minutes without swallowing.
• Some patients find that rinsing their mouth with tomato juice helps. Instead of juice, you can simply hold a piece of fresh tomato in your mouth.

Bird's knotweed is used for inflammatory, allergic reactions, and changes in sensitivity. It is used to treat digestive disorders and eliminate intoxication. It has hemostatic properties. The main forms of application are decoction and tincture. It is often added to tea, coffee, and decoctions. Infusions and decoctions are drunk in the morning on an empty stomach.

Sweet clover is often used for poisoning, as well as to overcome the effects of intoxication. It relieves spasms, swelling, and reduces pain, and also helps to normalize the general condition of the body.

Common oregano is used for general strengthening of the body, increasing endurance, resistance, normalizes the composition and function of the blood. An excellent means of preventing viral and bacterial infections. Use 200 ml in the morning and evening as a decoction. Dry grass is poured with boiling water, infused for an hour. Do not exceed the dosage.

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Complications and consequences

A metallic taste can be a sign of a serious and serious disease, so if you do not consult a doctor in time, do not make a diagnosis, you can start a serious pathology. After all, any treatment is more effective in the early stages of treatment. Moreover, there are some diseases that can be cured only if they are diagnosed in a timely manner. For example, one of the consequences of ignoring the appearance of a metallic taste can be serious diseases and complications of the kidneys, liver, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, pyelonephritis, nephritis, glomerulonephritis. A metallic taste very often indicates the development of poisoning. In most cases, this is one of the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Without timely assistance, poisoning can end in death. Often, a metallic taste is a sign of cancer, or a severe infectious, viral disease, immunodeficiency. Often this taste accompanies blood diseases, including anemia, clotting disorders, and the destruction of hemoglobin.

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Prevention

The mechanisms of taste perception are very complex: not only the oral cavity and tongue, but also, in particular, the nervous system take part in them. Therefore, preventive measures should be comprehensive, with the observance of the recommendations of a dentist, neurologist, otolaryngologist, endocrinologist and other specialists.

In general, preventive measures include:

• maintaining a healthy lifestyle;
• complete nutrition with vitamins, avoiding hunger strikes and overeating;
• adequate drinking regime;
• compliance with safety regulations at work, use of special protective equipment when working with chemicals, paints and varnishes, etc.;
• prevention of infectious diseases, timely treatment of sinusitis, maxillary sinusitis, otitis;
• maintaining oral hygiene, timely treatment of teeth and gums, regular preventive dental examinations;
• avoidance of frequent antibiotic therapy, prolonged use of high doses of antifungal drugs, fluoroquinolones, statins, proton pump inhibitors;
• avoidance of self-medication, regular medical examinations;
• Quitting smoking and alcohol abuse.

Forecast

If you have a metallic taste in your mouth, you need to get examined. This could be a sign of poisoning or a sign of illness. In most cases, with timely treatment, the prognosis will be favorable. If you do nothing, the situation may worsen, and then the prognosis will be unpredictable.

Since the treatment of taste disorders consists of eliminating the root causes of their occurrence, the prognosis is determined solely by the outcome of the causal pathology. For example, after the correction of metabolic disorders, additional tastes completely disappear, taste capabilities are normalized. Thus, both treatment and prognosis are not specific, the only correct method of treating this problem does not exist. Some patients experience a decrease and even loss of appetite, neuroses and depression develop.

If COVID-19 is suspected, patients are examined and treated according to existing protocols. The metallic taste in the mouth disappears as the underlying disease is cured.